Wild Roses by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

In my continuing series of artists‘ interviews, I was very honored to speak with the Czech artist, Pavel Kasparek.  He gave me a very candid view on his work and life as an artist in Europe:

BS: Tell me a little bit about your background in the arts.

PK: I am a realist painter from the Czech Republic specializing in still lifes and landscapes. As for my education, I studied Fine Arts teaching and Textile Art at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague. After years of experimenting in various techniques comprising abstract painting, printmaking, weaving, etc., I finally turned to oil painting in a representational style. I consider traditional painting in oils to be by far the best technique I have ever used. I think a good painting is something special and valuable despite all the new media in contemporary art.

Meerkat by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

BS: What are your materials of choice?

PK: As I mentioned above, my favorite technique is oil painting. While using oil colors I realized how unique the technique was and that no other can offer such quality. My paintings are created by applying several layers of glazes which gives the work specific quality and depth. For this approach, oils are the best choice. I try to learn from the skills of the old masters and there is so much to learn!

Bubbles No. 2 by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

BS: Do you have a favorite subject?

PK: My favorites at the moment are still lifes and landscapes but I tend to change subjects to avoid routine. In generaI, I am trying to capture the often-overlooked beauty that resides in everyday motives. My objective is to show the beauty hidden in ordinary life.

Reclining Nude by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

BS: You do both abstract and figurative work.  Do you have a preference?

PK: These days I prefer figurative work, though abstract works are a good way to compensate the figurative ones.

Tangerines by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

BS: What are your ideal working conditions?

PK: Time is essential. I feel it is quite a lot about struggling with the lack of time. There are so many chores distracting my creative work. So, to me, ideal conditions mean plenty of time for painting. That is the reason why I love summer holiday.

BS: Where do you see your work going next?

PK: I would like to continue with my representational painting as there is so much to learn in terms of technique and so much to explore as for motives. I plan to create a body of works on still lifes and present them in exhibitions.

BS: How is business?

PK: To be honest, it is rather difficult. Sales are rare particularly in times of an economic crisis. However, I make my living as a teacher and it allows me to be independent and not to think too much about the business.

Grove by Pavel Kasparek on Zatista.com

BS: Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the creative field?

PK: My advice is to keep on creating and never give up regardless how profitable it is. Being creative means to be a part of a wonderful community of creative people and to contribute this way to culture, humanity and democracy.

Brian Sylvester is a guest blogger on WallSpin, and an artist on Zatista.

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